Irish motorists given stark warning of 'temporary blindness' amid soaring temperatures

Irish motorists have been given a stark warning as temperatures are set to soar to nearly 25 degrees in some parts of Ireland this week.

The Road Safety Authority of Ireland (RSA) has issued the warning to drivers and told them to "expect the unexpected" as during sunny days more people, including pedestrians and cyclists, are out and about.

The RSA also warned that a big problem facing drivers in the good weather could potentially cause temporary blindness from the brightness of the sun.

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In a statement on their website, the RSA said,

"The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging all road users to be aware of the dangers posed by sun glare as the sunny clear weather is set to continue this week.

"Sun glare can result in drivers being temporarily blinded or dazzled by the intensity and brightness of the sun.

"As clear, sunny conditions continue and high temperatures are forecast over the coming days, the RSA advises drivers to:

• Reduce the risk from sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses.
• Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.
• Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water; any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.
• Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out. Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving.
• Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.

Sun glare affects all road users. Pedestrians, people who cycle and motorcyclists are advised to:

• Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.
• Use sun block when out walking and cycling.

"Summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard.

"There can be a spike in pedestrians, people who cycle and motorcyclist casualties over the summer months as the fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them.

"Slow down and expect the unexpected."